Building Your Own Containers
By Vanessa Richins
Richard writes:
“I’m looking for plans for building my own containers-square or rectangular wood primarly. Do you have any suggestions?”
One aspect of the Internet that I love is the vast wealth of knowledge available.
Here are just some of the directions I was able to find on wood and other materials.
This website has a good description of the strengths and weaknesses of wood planters:
“Wood is an excellent material for container gardens because it lets the plant roots breathe and it is relatively light weight. You can also make your own containers to whatever size you like. The wood will deteriorate after several years, however, so wooden planters are best used for shorter lived plants rather than trees or shrubs which you will keep planted for many years. Making your planter from redwood or cedar will make it longer lived, as these woods resist insects and wood rot.”
These plans will guide you in making a 12″ x 12″ x 12″ container, and it also has instructions on how to adjust to other sizes as needed.
Georgia Pacific has quite a few different projects for the garden, from arbors to planter boxes.
I’ll admit, I’m a little biased (I am their Trees and Shrubs guide), but I love About.com – so much information in one place. Here’s a little video about making containers from household items, great for those who like to recycle, save money, or both!
Has anyone else built their own containers?
March 22nd, 2009 at 11:49 pm
[...] scoured the internet for good instructions for building your own wooden container. I think I might incorporate one of the wooden containers she found into an asian inspired [...]
March 23rd, 2009 at 10:12 am
I buy olive oil by the gallon in metal tins and then when they’re empty I cut the top out and use them as planters. They bring an interesting feel to the garden.
April 4th, 2009 at 5:51 pm
[...] scoured the internet for good instructions for building your own wooden container. I think I might incorporate one of the wooden containers she found into an asian inspired [...]